Treating Cystitis naturally

If you’ve ever had cystitis you’ll know how unpleasant it is. Symptoms include a frequent and overwhelming urge to go to the toilet, and when you get there you often pass only a small amount of urine which stings and can feel hot. The urine passed is also often smelly and/or cloudy. Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder and is normally caused by a bacterial infection. Cystitis is more common in women as the passage from the bladder (the urethra) is shorter than men’s urethras, and bacteria can be more easily spread from the anus or vagina to the bladder.

To reduce the symptoms of cystitis many people opt for over the counter remedies which often work by making the urine more alkaline. A cheaper and just as effective remedy is to dissolve a teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate in water. Personal hygiene is also important in reducing the likelihood of infection, such as making sure you wipe from the front to the back after emptying your bladder or bowels.

Cystitis is one of a range of problems that can affect the urinary system. Urinary discomfort can also be caused by chlamydia, prostate problems in men, urethritis, and kidney stones. This is by no means an exclusive list. The doctors should be the first port of call, so that the causes of urinary problems are identified and treated. However with less severe problems eating the right foods can have a dramatic effect.

The first priority when experiencing cystitis is to drink lots of water, which helps dilute the urine and flush out the kidneys. It is also a good idea to avoid foods which can aggravate cystitis, and eat more of the foods that can have a beneficial effect on urinary infections.

Foods to avoid
Sugar is one of the first foods to cut from your diet. Swiss naturopath Alfred Vogel when treating patients found that when they abstained from sugar their pain was relieved, however upon being given sugar again the pain returned without fail.

Salt encourages fluid retention which can affect the flushing action of the kidneys.

Citrus juices in large quantities can increase the acidity of the urine which can add to urinary discomfort. However they also are important in providing valuable anti-oxidant vitamins which enhance the ability of the immune system to fight infection. When your symptoms are relieved, try re-introducing citrus fruits and cut back on them again if symptoms return.

Alcohol can increase levels of uric acid which can interfere with the normal function of the kidneys.

Some of the ingredients in Coffee, Tea and carbonated drinks can have an irritating effect on the kidneys and urinary tract.


Foods that can help
Cranberries are a well known food for helping clear up cystitis, which works by preventing bacteria sticking to the inner walls of the bladder. When buying cranberry juice opt for the ones without added sugar.

Barley is another extremely beneficial remedy for cystitis but not as well know about. Barley’s demulcent qualities can soothe inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract. You can make your own barley water by boiling 1 heaped tablespoon of pot barley (available at supermarkets and health food shops) in 1 ½ pints of water and simmering for 30 minutes.

Celery is not only anti-inflammatory, but also can help eliminate waste via the urine. The active compound in celery is concentrated in the seeds which can be brought at health foods shops and made into a tea, or added into salads.

Dandelion acts as a tonic to the urinary system as well as being a gentle but effective diuretic, increasing the rate of urination, and helping the body eliminate waste products. Dandelion leaves can be added to salads. There are also coffee substitutes you could try made from ground dandelion roots. They are often combined with chicory (see below).

Chicory has a reputation for being an excellent cleanser and detoxifier.

Melons can gently stimulate the kidneys, and has been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for kidney and bladder problems. Melons are an excellent cleanser, and due to its high water content can rehydrate the body and help flush out the kidneys.

Yogurt is a must if you’ve been prescribed a course of antibiotics for cystitis. Antibiotics can wipe out both good and bad bacteria and eating yogurt can help to restore equilibrium in the gut. Yogurt can protect against bacterial infection especially in the urinary tract.

Garlic is an amazing all rounder, with anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral qualities. For any ailment garlic is an invaluable addition to your diet.

Extra help
Uva-ursi was recommended to me by my reflexologist for a urinary tract infection, and I found it worked really well Uva-ursi works as a urinary antiseptic. It also has a high tannin content which strengthens and tones the membranes of the urinary tract.

“Let food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food”
Hippocrates

Please note
I am not medically qualified, but have had an interest in and have researched nutrition and alternative remedies for many years. For this article I referred to:
The food doctor, Healing foods for mind and body by Vicki Edgson and Ian Marber
Superfoods by Michael Van Starten and Barbara Griggs
Prescription for Nutritional Healing (2nd edition) by James F Balch M.D and Phyllis A Balch C.N.C